Not just for the dying
What Is Anointing of the Sick?
Anointing of the Sick is one of the most misunderstood sacraments in the Catholic Church. Many people still think of it as "Last Rites" — something administered only at the moment of death. This is not accurate. The Church has broadened the sacrament significantly, and it is available to anyone facing serious illness, major surgery, or the frailty of advanced age.
The rite is simple and deeply moving. A priest anoints the person's forehead and hands with blessed oil, praying for healing, strength, and peace. He may also hear a Confession and give Communion — what is called Viaticum when given to the dying, meaning "food for the journey."
The effects of the sacrament are profound: the forgiveness of sins, the strengthening of the soul, sometimes physical healing when God wills it, and above all — an unmistakable sense of peace and the presence of God in the darkest hour.
James 5:14–15
"Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well."
You don't have to be dying
Who Can Receive This Sacrament?
Anyone seriously ill — cancer, heart disease, serious infection, neurological conditions
Anyone facing major surgery
The elderly who are weakened by age, even without a specific illness
Anyone whose condition has significantly worsened
Those approaching the end of life
Those with serious mental illness that significantly affects their life
Those with minor illnesses — a cold, the flu, a broken arm
When in doubt, call. If you are unsure whether a situation qualifies, call your parish and describe it. Priests would far rather be called and say "not yet" than have someone go without the sacrament who needed it.
Practical steps
How to Arrange the Sacrament
Call your parish directly
Call the parish office and tell them you need a priest to administer the Anointing of the Sick. Explain the situation — illness, surgery, or end of life. They will arrange a visit.
In a hospital or care facility
Most hospitals have Catholic chaplains on staff. Ask the nursing staff or patient services to contact the Catholic chaplain. They are available around the clock for urgent situations.
If death is imminent — call immediately
Do not wait. Call any Catholic parish, day or night. Priests are always available for emergency calls at the end of life. Tell them it is urgent. They will come.
For someone who has been away from the Church
A person does not need to have been a practicing Catholic to receive this sacrament. If they were baptized Catholic and are seriously ill, call a priest. The sacrament is available to them.
If the situation is urgent
Call any Catholic parish in your area immediately. You do not need to be a registered parishioner. Simply say: "I need a priest for Last Rites — this is urgent." A priest will come.
Find a Parish Near You →Need to arrange this sacrament?
Find a parish near you and call them directly. For urgent situations, any Catholic parish will respond immediately.